The journey to Chernihiv - the needs remain accute

The drive from Kiyv to Chernihiv took a bit more than 4 hours. To avoid the destroyed bridge of the highway, we have to use a 2-lane road in a big forest. Roads are generally in bad shape in Ukraine but here you add the numerous checkpoints. Each time, ID and a document legitimising the goods that we transported. Taking pictures and videos remains totally prohibited because of the makeshift fortifications on the way. At least twice we had to hold our breath as we were crossing bridges that had been just quickly repaired. As we were approaching the city, the traces of recent battles became visible: remains of a few tanks and then houses and factories in ruins. My 2 companions, just coming back to the city after the siege, who had remained quite silent during the trip, became suddenly more tense and emotional.

We finally reached out destination: the Roman Catholic parish of the Holy Spirit. Father Pyotr of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary received us with our shipment of food and medicine. 2 days ago the 30 people who had been sleeping with them in the basement since the beginning of the offensive could go back home. Only one family remains there because their house is totally destroyed. Gas and electricity are also back at least in this neighbourhood. But supply of basic necessities remains scarce.

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BoMozhemo's Roof Brigade

After the frame has been repaired, covered with plastic sheeting, and the asbestos delivered, the strike team can go into action, summoned by a post on Telegram, in the evening as usual. The side is picked. And off we go : the first sheet of asbestos can be sent for fitting and nailing by the roof climbers. The asbestos rise at a steady pace, sometimes slowed down by the necessary trimming, but the laughter and joyful exchanges continue uninterrupted until well after dark, when the roof is completely covered. Another family protected from the elements.

TIME TO GO BACK

Work is now completed in Yevgueni and Tania's house. But so many people are still exposed to the cold in bombed houses. With your generosity, we hope to go back and show them that they are not alone in the tribulation, that the victory is where there is hope and solidarity.

The work goes on

The house of Sonia and Igor was hit by four artillery shots and totally destroyed last year. Fortunately they were in a safe place with their daughter Nikita at the time, and Igor is a professionnal builder. Couragously they worked tirelessly with the help of BoMozhemo, and here they are putting the floor and the electricity. It is a grace to share these days with them, sorting out bricks salvaged from the ruins, crushing them with a sledgehammer for cement or putting the greenhouse back together with its promise of borsch, and other traditional vegetable dishes.

ST. JAN - CHARITY UKRAINE

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